Britain Urges Families of Diplomats to Leave Israel

The British government issued instructions today, Thursday, for the families of its diplomats in Israel to leave "as a precautionary measure." A statement from the Foreign Office said, "British diplomats will continue their work in Israel," adding, "We are temporarily withdrawing the families of staff from our embassy in Tel Aviv and our consulate in Jerusalem as a precaution." The statement continued: "Our embassy and consulate remain fully staffed and continue providing consular services to those who need assistance." The British government advised against non-essential travel to Israel, stating that it made the decision regarding the families of diplomats "in accordance" with this guidance.